Spain Risk Assessment Country Guide

A historically influential global power, Spain is a well-developed member nation of the European Union with high living standards and quality of life. The country has one of the largest economies in the world, invested in renewable energy, technology, agriculture and tourism.

According to the UK Government, more than 12 million British nationals travel to Spain each year. While most visits are trouble-free, expats and tourists can still face a number of challenges associated with life abroad. For instance, there is a general threat of terrorism and ongoing strike activity.

Due to this concern and other possible risks, it is recommended that you consider obtaining appropriate international insurance for your stay in Spain. Coverage can help limit the potential financial impact of life overseas, and related costs could become costly.

Health

Safety & Security

Terrorism

Business Customs

Prior to leaving your home country, you should contact your primary care physician to discuss any vaccinations or other preventative measures. Health care facilities in Spain are generally considered adequate and in similar condition to those found in the US and the UK.

As of November 2014, there was only 1 case of Ebola in Madrid, and 0 deaths. The World Health Organization declared Spain free of Ebola virus transmission on December 2, 2014.

Recently, Spanish authorities have issued alerts regarding an increased risk of rabies. although exposure in humans has been low. You should still remain cautious around all domestic and wild animals.

Clements Worldwide provides Expat Health Insurance, with USD 5 million in health care benefits. A policy includes flexible payment options, choice of deductible and around-the-clock, multilingual claims assistance. An optional War and Terrorism extension is available. There is no limiting network of doctors, so you can choose from any medical professional anywhere in the world outside your home country,

Injury or illness could occur anywhere, and you may have to travel in order to reach necessary levels of care. A Medical Evacuation and Repatriation insurance policy from Clements covers expenses to transport you to a capable medical facility in case a local medical center isn’t able to provide adequate treatment.

Call us today at +1.202.872.0060 or 800.872.0067 or email request@clements.com to discuss your organization’s travel needs tailored to considerations involved while operating in Spain.

While the political climate in Spain is relatively stable overall, there have been instances of demonstrations and strikes. These often take place in response to government reforms. Therefore, you should be cautious near any large public gathering and avoid these events.

A Personal Accident insurance policy from Clements protects your organization’s employees and their families' financial stability following an accident, regardless of whether it occurs on the job or during personal time. Coverage begins at USD 100,000 per person.

Road conditions across Spain are adequate, and similar to those found in the US and the UK. According to the UK's Department for Transport, there were 1,834 road deaths in the country throughout 2012. That is an average of 4.0 road deaths per 100,000 of the population.

An optional Political Violence extension is also recommended, which broadens the coverage to include strikes, riots, malicious damage, sabotage, war, terrorism or civil unrest.

Insurance is also available for mariners operating in or near Spain's waters. A Maritime Security insurance policy from Clements ensures compliance with BIMCO insurance requirements and GUARDCON standards that will achieve cost savings, better coverage, and more efficient policy administration.

Call us today at +1.202.872.0060 or 800.872.0067 or email request@clements.com to discuss your organization’s travel needs tailored to considerations involved while operating in Spain.

There is a general threat of terrorism in Spain. Potential attacks may be indiscriminate, and target locations often visited by expats and tourists. In August 2012, Spanish authorities arrested three people considered to be planning a terrorist attack.

A War and Terrorism insurance policy from Clements offers the right coverage against the risks of civil unrest, war, riots, looting and acts of terrorism.

Clements also provides a Kidnap and Ransom insurancepolicy, which ensures financial assistance following a kidnapping, such as independent investigations, negotiations and the arrangement and delivery of funds.

Call us today at +1.202.872.0060 or 800.872.0067 or email request@clements.com to discuss your organization’s travel needs tailored to considerations involved while operating in Spain.

Spain is the 4th largest economy in the European Union and one of the top 20 exporters anywhere in the world. Spain is the home of a number of international corporations, in addition to its renowned tourism industry. Before you complete any deals on the Iberian Peninsula, you'll need a good handle on the local business customs that will be expected of you, even as an expatriate.

Greeting Etiquette

There are a few rules you'll need to become familiar with if you want your next meeting in Spain to go smoothly.

Some customs are commonplace such as shaking hands upon first introduction. This is always expected, just as it is in North America. However, this is typically reserved for first-time meetings.

Once a relationship has been established,it's common for men to embrace and give each other pats on the back.

Similarly, female friends will give quick kisses on both cheeks to say hello and goodbye, always starting with the left cheek.

Dining Etiquette

If you want to discuss business at lunch, you should mention this in advance so the Spanish counterpart is ready to discuss the issues with you.

Meal times in Spain are generally considered the time to relax and enjoy oneself rather than to close deals.

More typically, the deals are done at the office, and then after the successful negotiations, you all go to celebrate at a restaurant.

If the Spanish party wants to be nice with you, they will most likely invite you for a meal. The one who extends the invitation is the one who foots the bill.

Bills are rarely split in Spain, regardless of the circumstance.

If you have been invited out, you should reciprocate at a later date, being careful not to give the impression that you are simply 'repaying' your earlier hosts.

Business Meeting Etiquette

Spanish businesses will always opt for in-person meetings when appropriate, as opposed to phone or teleconferences.

Most business dealings can hinge on how you present yourself - including how you speak about your past achievements.

While in some countries, it is expected of you to tout your past successes in the workforce, this can come across as boastful in Spain.

"Going over someone's head" is generally frowned upon in most countries, and this is especially true in Spain. Hierarchy and seniority within the company should dictate whom you have meetings with, and certainly important when it comes to any form of negotiation.

In the United States many people like to get straight to business and don’t have time for small-talk or to discuss personal matters. This is the exact opposite situation when doing business in Spain.

One must spend time to develop and nurture a relationship with a potential business partner. This “Business courtship” process is critical in gaining the trust of a business partner.

Conversation regarding family, culture and food/wine are especially good topics and show genuine interest. The more you get to about your business partner, the better.

In addition evaluating the risks and viability of doing business internationally, learn about Spain's bolstering economy. The recent financial crisis in the country has made some companies concerned about whether Spain is a stable enough place to do business. During 2008-2013, Spain suffered one of the worst economic and financial crises of modern times. Expats suffered because of the crisis as much as Spanish citizens. Many lost their jobs, and unemployment was higher in Spain than most other countries during this difficult time.